NASA / JPL-Caltech / MSSS
Sample tube from the Martian rover Perseverance
The discovery is raising concern about the problem of contamination of samples collected from Mars, which could call into question the accuracy of analyzes in the search for evidence of life.
A new published in Applied Geochemistry is raising new concerns about the contamination in the analysis of Martian materials.
Currently operating on the Red Planet, Perseverance’s mission is to drill, collect and store samples that could one day help scientists determine whether life ever existed on Mars. However, the long-planned mission to bring these samples to Earth was canceled earlier this yearleaving uncertainty about whether and when they will be studied directly in terrestrial laboratories.
Meanwhile, the rover continues to collect material, sealing the samples in specialized tubes. Some of these tubes are “control tubes,” designed specifically for detect contamination of the Earth or the spacecraft itself, highlighting the seriousness with which scientists treat the risk of compromising extraterrestrial material.
This concern was reinforced by new research from the University of the Basque Country, which examined Martian meteorites already found on Earth. These rocks, ejected from Mars by asteroid impacts and subsequently falling to Earth, offer a rare opportunity to study Martian geology.
The study revealed unexpected contaminants introduced during laboratory analysis. Among them, traces of pen inkethyl alcohol and even diamond particles, says .
The researchers explained that contamination can occur during the preparation process, when samples are cut and polished with specialized tools and chemicals. Diamond abrasives, typically used in rock cutting, can leave residue, while cleaning agents such as ethanol may not completely eliminate impurities. More surprisingly, traces of blue and violet pen ink were also identified, probably introduced during handling.
Even small amounts of contamination can lead to misinterpretations, especially in search for organic compounds that may indicate a past life. Distinguishing between genuine Martian material and terrestrial contaminants is therefore crucial.
To solve the problem, the research team recommends adjustments to laboratory procedures, including use of alternative cleaning solvents and improved handling techniques.
